Struggling Asthma Patients Forced to Reduce Medication Use Due to Financial Pressures, according to Asthma Society's Report
Asthma Society of Ireland Urges Government to Address Affordability Crisis of Asthma Medication
The Asthma Society of Ireland (ASI) is calling on the Irish Government to address the affordability crisis of asthma medication, particularly for the estimated 450,000 people living with asthma in Ireland. The organization is advocating for dedicated government funding to subsidize asthma medications, aiming to reduce cost-related non-adherence among patients.
In a recent statement, ASI chief executive Eilís Ní Chaithnín highlighted the cost burden on asthma patients, stating that the combined cost of medication and cost-of-living pressures have caused an "affordability crisis". She went on to say that people may have to choose between paying essential bills and medication due to the high costs.
To tackle this issue, the ASI is proposing a government-funded subsidy scheme for asthma medications. This scheme would ensure that no individual is priced out of breathing and can access the medicines they need without financial hardship. The organization is also advocating for free home energy upgrades for people with chronic respiratory conditions at risk of energy poverty.
The ASI's campaign is part of their broader #Budget2026 advocacy to prioritize affordability and access to necessary asthma treatments in national health funding decisions. To achieve this, they are calling on the Government to allocate €14 million to subsidise asthma medications in 2026.
In addition, the ASI's submission describes systemic gaps in asthma diagnosis and treatment that create a long-term financial burden from poorer health outcomes. They suggest reducing the threshold for the drugs payment scheme by €8 to €72 and abolishing prescription charges for medical card holders, at an estimated cost of €84.5 million to the exchequer.
The cost of combination inhalers, considered the "gold standard" for asthma control, is a significant concern. These inhalers, which can cost between €65 and €85 each, are increasing in price. Prof Marcus Butler, medical director at ASI, emphasizes the importance of subsidising inhalers due to their effectiveness in controlling asthma and reducing symptoms.
The ASI's concerns are not unfounded. In 2022, 87 people died from asthma, and preliminary figures suggest this trend has continued into 2023 and 2024, with the majority of these deaths being preventable. The organization conducted a survey, and nearly a quarter of respondents reported going without asthma medication due to cost. Of the survey respondents, 56% reported experiencing difficulties making ends meet.
Ms Smyth, a recipient of the drug payment scheme and diagnosed with severe asthma in her 20s, stated that medication costs €80 a month, which she considers a significant financial commitment. By implementing these measures, the Government can enhance the lives of hundreds of thousands of asthma patients, according to Ms Ní Chaithnín.
In conclusion, the ASI is tackling the issue of the affordability crisis of asthma medication primarily through advocacy for dedicated government funding to subsidize asthma medications. Their campaign aims to reduce cost-related non-adherence among asthma patients in Ireland and prioritize affordability and access to necessary asthma treatments in national health funding decisions.
- The Asthma Society of Ireland is suggesting a government-funded subsidy scheme for nutritional education and dietary support for asthma patients to ensure a well-rounded approach to health and wellness.
- In an effort to address mental health concerns among patients, the ASI is advocating for partnerships with mental health professionals to provide counseling services for those struggling with anxiety and stress caused by financial struggles related to chronic diseases like asthma.
- Recognizing that many asthma patients might face challenges in understanding their financial situations, the ASI is collaborating with financial advisers specializing in wealth management and personal finance, providing them with resources for financial literacy and budgeting.
- To enable easier access to asthma medications for those with respiratory conditions, the ASI proposes creating fitness and exercise programs tailored to asthma patients, promoting better lung function and overall health as a long-term strategy in managing chronic diseases.
- To support individuals with asthma in managing their condition and making ends meet, the ASI suggests introducing a financial assistance program for utility bills, addressing the energy poverty concerns experienced by people living with chronic respiratory conditions.
